Food and drink producers across the South West are celebrating following the latest round of Taste of the West Awards, with businesses from Somerset, Devon, Gloucestershire and Bristol among those receiving Gold, Silver and Commended accolades.
Devon producers picked up 58 awards, while Somerset businesses secured 34 and Gloucestershire producers received 18. Bristol-based producers were also recognised in the latest announcements.
The awards span a broad range of food and drink, from meat, dairy and bakery products to ice cream, preserves, cider, spirits, soft drinks and fermented products, reflecting the breadth of the South West’s food and drink sector.
Entries are judged by a panel of chefs, food writers, buyers and industry experts, who assess products on appearance, aroma, texture and flavour, alongside technical skill and practical considerations including packaging, labelling and sustainability credentials.
Winning products can now display the Taste of the West Awards logo on their packaging. The awards programme, which has been supporting and promoting the region’s food and drink industry for more than 30 years, is also backed by an expanded programme designed to help winners build on their success following Taste of the West’s relaunch as a Community Interest Company.
Charles Baughan, Spokesperson and Sustainability Lead for Taste of the West CIC and owner of Westaway Sausages, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be unveiling another wave of Taste of the West Awards winners this week and celebrating some of the very best food and drink our region has to offer. From long-established favourites to exciting new producers, this year’s winners showcase the quality, innovation and passion that make the South West such an exceptional food destination.
“The Awards remain a cornerstone of our work at Taste of the West, and we’re committed to helping winners make the most of their success through an expanded programme of support and member benefits. For now, though, this is their moment to celebrate. Congratulations to every winner, and I hope they take time to savour this well-deserved recognition.”
The top-rated products from the latest round will now progress to a final stage of judging, with product finalists and category champions due to be announced later this year. The Reserve Champion and Supreme Champion will be revealed at the Taste of the West Awards Ceremony in February 2027.
The full list of winners, together with more information about the awards and Taste of the West, can be found on the Taste of the West website.
(Photo Credit: Neil Warren).
